Tom Danielson will never forget solo summiting of Independence Pass

ASPEN — Tom Danielson said Wednesday’s win from Gunnison to Aspen was the biggest thrill of his career but inside that ride was another thrill: cresting Independence Pass with the lead and a downhill finish to Aspen.

“That was awesome,” the Boulder resident said. “When you do Tour de France climbs it’s pretty exciting because everyone’s running and screaming but when you go over a Colorado climb and you’re a Colorado guy – well, a Connecticut guy but based in Colorado – yeah, it’s a dream come true. I dreamed of going over Indy Pass first alone and for it to come true the way it did is something I’ll never forget.”